Coming to terms in the gay community…

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As seen on Facebook, posted by Teddi Sakellarides (not sure if that’s who originally posted)…

Woke up this morning to a storm of online hysteria regarding Target’s recent decision. I wonder: Do people realize that their fear/disgust about trans people using the bathrooms isn’t actually about trans people but rather about rape culture? Fear is a serious thing, but let’s be precise in our definitions. You’re not actually afraid of trans people. You’re afraid that men will take this as an opportunity to rape or sexually assault girls/women. Considering we live in a world where 1 in 6 women will be assaulted in her lifetime, this is actually a justifiable fear, but this tragedy existed long before any public bathroom decided to change a sign on the door, and it actually has very little to do with trans people; in fact, trans people are often victims of terrible violence themselves. Let’s get to the root of it. “Gender fluidity” isn’t the enemy. Critique male privilege. Talk about sexual violence. Hold men accountable for their actions. Refuse to stay silent about a society that breeds this culture of violent, hyper-masculinity. Ask why everyone ignores it or wants to pin it on something else. I am ready for that conversation.